Richard Rohr wrote, “If we don’t learn to mythologise our lives, inevitably we will pathologise them.” This, and my time spent at Jacky Winter Waters reminds me why I write, paint and dance.

I end my time here on a full moon in May with genuine gratitude in my heart for the privilege of this residency.

Privilege can be so frowned upon, even by the privileged. My week began marred by guilt and trepidation, leaving my children, husband and responsibilities behind, to be alone at the edge of the world.

But I have come full circle, as circles always do, to know again that inner peace, joy and rest are human rights.

Here in Walkerville, I sensed my younger self with me. I embraced the sun as if she was an old school friend, I ballet-leaped over rocks on the sand, I moved my hips to reggaeton like no one was watching – because not a single soul was.

I feared the people in utes loitering along the beachfront were murderers, only to realise they were fishermen, and cried at moonlit visions of my late friend.

My deep contemplation led to questions which led to conversations, which led to Google, which all surprisingly led to answers.

Thank you to Jacky Winter whose gift has allowed me to feel deep emotions, to feel human once again.